Disable Amazon Sidewalk for Now

Amazon is releasing their Sidewalk network feature that creates a local network among neighbors with Amazon products like the Echo devices and Ring security cameras. Such a network could enable a host of new capabilities but might also introduce new cyber risks to participants. Connecting to other networks can expose your personal devices and data. As this is a new service, the cybersecurity industry has not yet tested its security.

Amazon is sending notices to customers and indicating this will be TURNED ON BY DEFAULT! That is concerning. The recommendation is to make such a service Opt-In and let customers decide if and when they want to participate.

For now, the recommendation is to DISABLE Amazon Sidewalk for now, until the security and privacy aspects are better understood.